What Do Recruiters Really Look for in HR Candidates During Interviews? Seeking Advice from Experienced Professionals

Hello seniors,

I am an HR professional looking for a job. Citehr has always been a very good resource for every HR-related issue. I am appearing for a few campus interviews these days. I want to know from all the esteemed recruiters and seniors sitting out there what you actually look for in an HR professional in order to give him/her the job.

Please provide me with a list of topics related to HR that should be known before sitting for an interview. It will be a great help!

Thanks and regards.

Khushboo is right, seniors should give some guidelines as asked by her. That will help many people giving interviews.

Hi Khushbu,

Unfortunately, people come with a lot of baggage and will give you gyan. What everyone forgets to mention is that "Be Yourself." It helps more than anything else. Also, don't hesitate to say, "I don't know the answer to this question. But I am a quick learner, and if given a chance, I will make sure I won't disappoint you." And SAY IT LIKE YOU MEAN IT! You will be surprised, but honesty works more than anything else.

Have a nice day.

Bhavesh Agrawal Founder & CEO SenseHR

Dear Khushboo,

I would say the following for you:

1. Be knowledgeable about the statutory and regulatory norms that apply to the state (e.g., Factories Act, Companies Act, etc.).

2. Be transparent always to discuss your strengths and weaknesses when asked, and also have an action plan to convert your weaknesses into strengths. You have to honestly list out your strengths and weaknesses like (good in presentation, interpersonal skills, etc., and weak in speaking English, stage fear, etc.).

3. Always have a vision in your life as to what you have to become in the future and how to achieve the same.

All the best

Dear Khushbu,

I am also looking for a job in HR and going through interviews these days. What my seniors have told me is that for an interview, we should be well-prepared for questions like weaknesses, strengths, and how we are going to benefit the organization with our skills, etc. Other than this, we must have knowledge of all the topics covered under the course of MBA HR, such as PF, gratuity, acts, performance appraisals, etc.

Take care and best of luck.

As a recruiter, we look for the suitability of the candidate. We have defined job descriptions and we assess whether the candidate possesses the required competencies. Therefore, before appearing for an interview, even at the time of applying, evaluate yourself to determine if you are a good fit for the position advertised by the recruiter. Nowadays, recruiters are providing detailed job descriptions so that you can assess whether you have the necessary skills for the job. Another important aspect is the industry in which you have gained exposure, such as service, manufacturing, retail, IT, or education. Many organizations prefer candidates from the same industry. Additionally, in HR, there are roles like HR Generalist, Training, Performance Management, etc. Where do your strengths lie? Conducting thorough self-analysis and evaluation will help you choose the right organization where you have a good chance of succeeding in the interview. This self-analysis will boost your confidence, enabling you to identify your strengths and areas for improvement.

This detailed input is highly relevant for any HR professional.

Regards,

Bhavan

Hi Khushboo,

I am also preparing for interviews, so the questions expected would be:
- Why have you chosen HR?
- What is HR?
- What is recruitment?
- What is the difference between training and development?
- What are the recent trends in HR?
- How will you achieve your goals in life?

Also, be prepared with information on statutory compliances, payroll, and your favorite topic in HR. Remember to be confident and presentable.

Good luck!

Regards,
Sara

Hi Khushboo,

In order to secure a job in HR, companies and recruiters typically look for the following:

1) Qualifications
2) Experience
3) Subject Knowledge
4) Communication & Presentation skills
5) Performance during the interview

Khushboo, if you are sincerely seeking a job in HR and are a fresher, having good communication skills can lead you to a role as an HR recruiter. Additionally, learning core activities will enhance your future prospects.

Prepare for the interview from the perspective of the interviewer. Stay positive, be confident, and you will definitely land a good job. All the best.

Regards,
Sharma